Understanding A Few Important Facts About Cremation

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If a loved one has recently passed away, then you need to make some tough decisions. If you know that your loved one wanted to be cremated, then there are a few things that you should know about the cremation process. Keep reading to learn about a few.

Embalming May Not Be Necessary

You are probably aware that bodies need to be prepared before cremation and burial. Traditionally, burials are carried out after the body is embalmed. Embalming is a preservation process that also sanitizes the body and allows for the viewing and funeral service. Embalming is not required if cremation is scheduled. However, if cremation is put off, then embalming fluids may be needed. Most state laws stipulate that embalming must occur if the body is not cremated within 24 to 48 hours

If you do not want your loved one to be embalmed, then it is a good idea to arrange for the cremation to occur as soon as possible. It is cheaper to skip the embalming, and many religions also do not agree with the embalming process. 

The cremation without refrigeration is called direct cremation, so ask for this when speaking to the funeral home. While the body will be cremated as soon as possible, it may need to be refrigerated for a short period of time. You will need to pay for the costs that are associated with the refrigeration, so keep this in mind. 

Cremation May Occur Off-Site

While some funeral homes have crematories that they own, some businesses do not have their own facilities. You should understand this if you arrange for a cremation. It is possible that your loved one will need to be transported to another facility. You will often be charged for the transportation costs. Do not be surprised if you see some of these costs on your funeral home bill. 

You should also know that the cremated remains will be transported back to the funeral home. You can choose an urn from the selections offered from the funeral home and the urn will be delivered to the crematory. 

It only takes a few hours to cremate a body, but the remains do need to be further processed, so it can take a few days for the remains to return to the funeral home. If you want to display the urn at a funeral service, then you should work with the funeral director when it comes to scheduling based on when the remains are likely to return to the funeral home. 

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31 March 2017

Decorating a Funeral Venue

My beloved paternal grandmother passed away almost 4 years ago. Before her death, this special woman suffered many months due to a fatal lung disease. After her passing, her large extended family wanted to celebrate her unique life with an elaborate funeral service. They chose to work with the funeral home staff to decorate the funeral venue with things she loved. Because she enjoyed fishing, a large floral arrangement in the shape of a fish was purchased. Also, the family bought a floral cross to illustrate her devotion to her faith. On this blog, you will discover how to work with a funeral home staff on decorations at the funeral service venue.